Question: Oliver has lost a lot of weight and seems to be having trouble swallowing his food. When he eats he vomits. He has not lost his appetite. He also is going blind. I've checked for obstruction in his throat but have found nothing. What could be causing him to regurgitate his food but still act like he is starving? K.A., New Braunfels, TX.

ANSWER: First, Oliver needs to be examined thoroughly by a veterinarian. Several things can cause weight loss and regurgitation such as diabetes, obstructions (further down in the digestive tract), nerve problems (myasthenia gravis) to the esophagus, congenital (present at birth) abnormalities, and many more. Blindness may or may not be part of the diagnosis and may be an entirely separate problem (may be related to diabetes, however). Your vet will need to run some laboratory work and possibly take some xrays using dyes to view the esophagus, or may recommend an ultrasound. You need to get to the bottom of the problem before you can treat it. Your dog is suffering with this condition and needs to be seen right away. Good luck!